Singapore is one of Canada’s most dynamic trading partners and a gateway to Southeast Asia. For Canadian businesses, shipping to Singapore opens opportunities in electronics, machinery, chemicals, agriculture, and consumer products. Both countries benefit from the CPTPP free trade agreement, which allows many goods to enter duty-free, provided they meet rules of origin requirements.
Whether you are an individual shipping personal items, an e-commerce seller fulfilling orders, or a business moving pallets and cargo, this guide covers the best ways to ship from Canada to Singapore, costs, transit times, customs requirements, and cost-saving tips.
Below are typical sample shipping costs for parcels and commercial freight. Actual rates vary based on size, weight, mode, and carrier discounts.
| Mode | Weight / Volume | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Post Surface | 2 kg parcel | ~$30–$40 | 4–8 weeks |
| Canada Post Air | 5 kg parcel | ~$200 | 2–3 weeks |
| Courier (FedEx/UPS/DHL) | 10 kg box | ~$300–$400 | 3–5 business days |
| Air Freight (Consolidated) | 100–150 kg | ~$5–$7 per kg | 5–7 business days |
| Ocean Freight (LCL) | 1 cubic meter (~200 kg) | ~$250–$350 | 30–45 days |
| Ocean Freight (FCL 20’) | ~10,000 kg / 28 m³ | From ~$3,000 | 25–35 days |
Tip: Compare landed costs (freight + surcharges + duties/taxes + carrier fees). Sometimes air freight can be cheaper than ocean once you account for destination charges.
The best way to ship depends on weight, size, urgency, and cost sensitivity:
All goods imported to Singapore are subject to Goods and Services Tax (GST), currently at 7% (rising to 9%). Dutiable goods include alcohol, tobacco, vehicles, and petroleum. Most other goods are non-dutiable but incur GST on the CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight) value.
Canadian goods may qualify for duty-free entry under CPTPP if accompanied by a Certificate of Origin that meets rules of origin.
For parcels under 2 kg, Canada Post Small Packet Surface is usually the cheapest. For larger shipments, ocean freight LCL offers the lowest cost per unit.
A 2 kg parcel costs ~$30–$40 with Canada Post Surface. A 10 kg box via FedEx/UPS is around ~$300–$400. Ocean freight starts at ~$250 per cubic meter.
Surface post: 4–8 weeks. Canada Post Air: 2–3 weeks. Couriers: 3–5 business days. Air freight: 5–7 business days. Ocean freight: 25–45 days.
Yes—if they meet CPTPP rules of origin. Proof of origin is required, such as a certificate or statement of origin.